Does anyone know if a yellow fever vaccine is needed when traveling to South Africa? We have a connection in Gabon for a few hours on our way to SA. There seems to be a new regulation since October 2011 that may give us a problem.

"Effective October 1, 2011, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers ≥1 year of age if traveling from or transiting through a country with risk of YFV transmissiona regardless of the amount of time spent at the airport. This requirement also applies to the following countries with low potential for exposure to YFV: São Tomé and Principe, Somalia, Tanzania, Zambia , and Eritrea (as of January 1, 2012). Travelers not meeting this requirement can be refused entry to South Africa or be quarantined for up to 6 days. Unvaccinated travelers with a valid medical waiver will be allowed entry."

I don't really want the yellow fever vaccine unless it is really needed! We will try to re-route our trip, but that may not be possible since we leave in mid-July.

From what I can remember from my days in an airline - if you physically get out of a plane at an airport and then board another one, then you will require a vaccination even if you have not left the terminal buildings. However, if you stay on board the same aircraft then it is not required.F

"Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote."Benjamin Franklin

Thanks p@m. It would be nice if the airline would let you know these things. I am worried about the 1 in 4 chance that I'll be feeling sick for a week after the shot, but spending 6 days in quarantine upon arrival would be worse.